New Cars for 2012: Chevrolet Full Lineup Info

Charting the changes for the 2012 model year.

Camaro: Next February, Chevy will release the 2012 Camaro ZL1, the 550-plus-hp, $55K king of Camaros. It’ll come with a six-speed manual or automatic, adjustable magnetic shocks, a flamboyant body kit, and interior upgrades. Elsewhere in the range, changes to the V-6 bring 11 more horsepower, for a total of 323. A sportier FE4 suspension is optional on the SS. All models get a freshened instrument panel and trim tweaks, plus an optional backup camera. The 45th Anniversary package caters to pent-up demand for insignificant quinquennial editions.

Corvette: Chevy has responded to our endless grumbling by redesigning the seats with better bolsters. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires are available on the Z06 and ZR1. Performance Traction Management, a five-mode stability-control system with launch control that made its debut on the ZR1 last year, comes on the Z06 for 2012. The ZR1 now has taller fifth and sixth gears for improved fuel economy. All models can be had with painted brake calipers.

Cruze: A six-speed manual, previously found only on the LS and Eco versions, is standard on LTs as of mid-2011.

Equinox: A blind-spot-monitoring system is standard across the lineup, and lane-departure and forward-crash-warning systems are available on V-6 LTZ models.

Impala: A new 302-hp, DOHC 3.6-liter V-6 with a six-speed automatic replaces all previous powertrains.

2013 Malibu: The new-for-’13 Malibu rides on a shorter wheelbase (107.8 inches), but greater width yields more passenger space. Like Hyundai’s Sonata, no V-6 will be offered. Instead, a new 190-hp, 2.5-liter four mated to a six-speed automatic will provide the go. GM’s eAssist will also be available, as well as the 2.0-liter turbo from the Buick Regal.

New cylinder heads for GM’s workhorse 3.6-liter V-6 eliminated 18 parts and 13 pounds by integrating the exhaust manifolds with the head castings. While they were at it, GM engineers improved intake and exhaust flow, adding 11 horsepower in the Camaro’s case. Exhaust emissions, highway fuel economy, and idle noise levels were also improved. This engine powers the Chevy Camaro, Impala, and Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle; the Cadillac CTS and SRX; and the Buick LaCrosse.